As you start to think about your kitchen remodel, the kitchen sink is one of the first items you’ll need to choose. Your dedicated Kowalske designer will help you choose the best sink based on your lifestyle and kitchen layout. In this guide, we’ve compiled everything you need to know about kitchen sinks before starting your kitchen remodel. Learn about all the sink styles, sizes, materials and accessories. Does that sink meet your wants and needs?
Ask yourself these five key questions:
1. Where do I want my new kitchen sink?
First things first: Where do you want your kitchen sink to be in your home? Sometimes it makes the most sense to keep your sink in the same location as your existing plumbing. But maybe your current sink isn’t in the best location. Think about what kind of view you want to see from your sink. If you want something scenic, then a window-facing sink is probably the way to go. Maybe you want to be able to interact with your family or guests while meal prepping? Then put your sink in the kitchen island. Also consider counter space and room for preparing meals. Your Kowalske designer will help you determine the best sink location, based on your layout and personal preference.
2. What kind of kitchen sink style do I want?
Once you figure out the placement of your sink, take some time to learn about different kitchen sink styles. Some popular options include:
Workstation Sink
A relatively new concept, the workstation sink offers increased workspace. Deeper than the average sink, it is more functional. It is also very sanitary and easy to clean. Workstations are perfect for a small kitchen because the sliding platforms that hold bowls, colanders and cutting boards multiply your countertop by going deep instead of wide. You can chop, rinse, prep, dry dishes, hold hot dishes and clean up after a meal more efficiently.
Composite Granite Sink
Heat- and scratch-resistant, this a very durable option with a long life. They are available in a wide variety of colors including white, black, gray and beige.
Undermount Sink
The seamless style of an undermount sink is ideal for most Waukesha kitchens. These sinks are installed under the cabinet, so your countertop will go right up to the edge. Due to the lack of an edge, you will have more counter space. They are easy to clean and bring a sleek look to the room.
Farmhouse Sink
Also known as an apron sink, a farmhouse sink features a deep basin and an exposed front that sits flush with your cabinets and countertops. With a charming feel, this sink choice offers a number of functional benefits that make it a great fit for many kinds of kitchens.
Prep Sink or Bar Sink
If you love to entertain in your kitchen, you may want to install a prep sink or bar sink as a secondary sink. This style of kitchen sink is very efficient as it doesn’t take up much space, usually half the size of a regular sink. It makes food preparation more convenient. You’ll often see a bar sink in larger kitchens or ones with a beverage station.
Double Basin Sink
The most popular type of kitchen sink, dual basins allow for a convenient arrangement of washing on one side and rinsing or drying on the other side. Truly multi-purpose and highly flexible, double basin sinks have all sink operations covered: washing, rinsing and draining.
3. What size kitchen sink meets my needs?
Size plays a role in deciding how to make the best decision in your kitchen. The average size of a kitchen sink is 22 inches by 30 inches, but sinks can range in size from 7 inches to 7 feet. Sinks are typically between 6 inches and 12 inches deep. So you have a lot of options! Think about how many bowls you want – one, two or even three? Factors to consider when deciding the size include: your physical needs and height, counter size, overall kitchen space and design preferences.
4. What kind of kitchen sink material do I want?
Give some thought to the type of material you think would look best in your Waukesha kitchen. With common criteria based on cost, ease of cleaning, aesthetics, and durability, you can decide which material will work best for you. Some popular materials are:
- Stainless Steel Sink: Quite affordable for most budgets, stainless steel is estimated to be used in 70% of all kitchen sinks.
- Copper Sink: A copper sink works well in farmhouse kitchens, but the price tag is on the higher end of the spectrum.
- Concrete Sink: The concrete sink takes an inexpensive material and makes it more picturesque.
- Enamel Sink: Commonly used in traditional and contemporary kitchens, an enamel sink adds value to the home, but requires special care.
- Fireclay Sink: A fireclay sink is a type of ceramic that is both durable and easy to maintain. These sinks are often undermount or farmhouse. Fireclay does not scratch or stain, unlike a cast iron.
- Stone Sink: Heat-resistant with a long life span, a stone sink is durable but porous and expensive. With this option, the size, shape, color, and surface texture are yours to decide.
- Cast Iron Sink: Long-lasting and easy to maintain, cast iron sinks come in a wide variety of color options. Most farmhouse sinks are made of cast iron. One negative to cast iron is that the material can scratch and stain easily.
- Acrylic Sink: Inexpensive, an acrylic sink comes in the form of plastic or fiberglass. These sinks are lightweight and easy to install. However, the life span is not as long as other sink materials, as they may scratch and dent from pots and pans.
5. What kitchen sink accessories should I consider?
Don’t forget about kitchen sink accessories! Think about your family and the needs you have, and create a kitchen sink environment that makes your life easier and more enjoyable. Sink accessories include:
- That much-needed garbage disposal
- A faucet that fits the look of your new sink
- A convenient soap dispenser
- A reverse osmosis faucet
- A sink caddy for dirty dishes
- A drying rack for clean dishes
Make a list, develop a vision, and have fun with it!
Get Started on Your Kitchen Remodel
Now that you have a better understanding of kitchen sinks, are you ready to start your Waukesha kitchen remodel? The possibilities are virtually endless to bring your dream kitchen to life! At Kowalske Kitchen & Bath, we are design-build contractors that have perfected a hassle-free formula. We manage every step of the renovation process.
Schedule an appointment today!
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